Frequently asked questions
When should my child have their first dental visit?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a child's first dental visit by their first birthday or when the first tooth erupts, whichever comes first. This visit is brief — mostly a chance for the parent to ask questions, for us to assess tooth development, and for the child to have a gentle, non-threatening first exposure to a dental office. Early visits set the foundation for lifelong comfort with dental care.
Can my whole family be seen in one appointment?
Yes. At Glisten Dental Studio Gilbert, we regularly schedule family members back-to-back or simultaneously using multiple operatories. One trip to the office, everyone's cleanings done. Particularly useful for busy parents juggling work and school schedules. Let our scheduling team know how many family members you'd like to bring when you call.
Is Glisten a pediatric dentist?
We're general dentists with extensive experience treating children — not specialty pediatric dentists (pediatric dentistry is a recognized specialty requiring 2-3 additional years of residency training). For routine children's dentistry — cleanings, sealants, fillings, fluoride, first visits — our general dental team is fully qualified and experienced. For complex cases (severe dental anxiety, special needs, very young children requiring sedation), we may refer to a board-certified pediatric specialist in the area.
How often should my kids get their teeth cleaned?
Same as adults: every six months. Regular professional cleanings combined with daily home brushing and flossing prevent the vast majority of childhood dental problems. For children at higher risk (enamel defects, heavy cavity history, bracket-heavy orthodontics), we may recommend cleanings every 3-4 months.
Do you offer sedation for anxious kids?
Yes. Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is our primary sedation option for children with dental anxiety — it's safe, well-studied, and children are alert and driven home immediately after. For older children or particularly complex cases, oral sedation may be appropriate. For very young children or those with significant special needs, we may refer to a pediatric specialist who performs treatment under general anesthesia in a surgical setting.
At what age should my child start getting dental sealants?
Dental sealants are typically applied to permanent molars as they erupt — usually around ages 6-7 for the first permanent molars and ages 11-13 for the second permanent molars. Sealants are a protective coating on the chewing surfaces that prevents bacteria from settling in the deep grooves where cavities most commonly form. Most dental insurance covers 100% of sealants for children under 14 on permanent molars.
When should my child see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial orthodontic screening by age 7 — not because most kids need braces then, but because early evaluation catches the small percentage of cases where early intervention significantly improves outcomes. For most children, Dr. Dawood's routine exams catch emerging orthodontic needs and we refer to a trusted orthodontist at the appropriate time. For straightforward cases, we also offer Invisalign in our own office for teens and adults.
Can my family use one membership plan for all of us?
Yes. The Glisten Dental Membership Plan has family pricing tiers — roughly \$60/month for 2 adults, ~\$95/month for a family of 4, with additional family members around \$15/month each. All members get 100% covered preventive care and 15-25% discounts on other services. Memberships are valid at all three Glisten Dental locations (Gilbert, Mesa, Glendale). See our membership plan page for complete details.